Most people know CBD mainly in the form of olie, which is made to be dripped under the tongue. Less well known are the so-called topical applications of cannabidiol. In other words: CBD creams and ointments for the skin. CBD skincare is – unlike many products with cortisone, for example, that you can get on prescription – 100% natural and you do not run the risk of serious side effects. But does CBD really help with skin problems? In this article we list what we know about CBD and four skin problems.
What does CBD do to your skin?
First of all, it is good to look at what exactly cannabidiol (CBD) does to the body and the skin in particular. CBD works on the so-called endocannabinoid system (ECS). This is a body's own system consisting of receptors, endocannabinoids and enzymes. It plays an important role in many body processes, ranging from memory and cognition to immune response and inflammation.
What is special about the ECS is that the body's own endocannabinoids (endo means body's own) are almost identical to cannabinoids such as CBD. So simply put: by taking CBD, you strengthen the functioning of your ECS and thus also the bodily functions that it controls. The receptors of the ECS are mainly located in the brain, but they also occur in the skin. More research is needed, but it is assumed that CBD ensures that the skin can balance itself better and counteract inflammation via the receptors in the skin.
CBD for acne
Acne is the most common skin condition in humans. Young adults in particular often suffer from it, but a large group of middle-aged people also struggle with acne. Symptoms of acne are an impure skin and inflammation, better known as 'pimples' and 'spots'.
Acne is caused by the sebaceous glands in the skin producing too much sebum. This causes the sebum to accumulate and the sebaceous glands to become clogged. This causes the sebum to accumulate in the gland and under the influence of bacteria, fatty acids are then created, which cause the gland to rupture and inflammation to occur.
Uit various studies it turns out that CBD has a beneficial effect on both regulating sebum production and combating inflammation. CBD ointment therefore primarily prevents blackheads and if they do occur, CBD prevents the formation of pimples from this. Another research also shows that CBD counteracts acne scars. In short: enough reasons to at least try CBD if you (or a loved one) suffer from acne.
Flakes and itching due to eczema and psoriasis
A second common topical application of CBD is for people with itchy and dry patches of skin. The most common conditions where this is often a problem are eczema and psoriasis, but they are certainly not the only ones.
Conditions such as eczema and psoriasis are chronic, hereditary conditions that mainly cause problems due to certain triggers. In the case of contact eczema, for example, it is about overstimulation of the skin by soap, hot water, certain clothing or another substance.
Since these conditions are hereditary, CBD cannot cure them. However, CBD can play a major role in reducing symptoms. CBD ensures that the skin hydrates better and that someone suffers less from itching, according to a study study from 2019. This will reduce the dry spots. And because the skin itches less, someone will also scratch less, which also causes less damage to the skin and the symptoms worsen less quickly. In this way, CBD can provide considerable relief.
Aging and wrinkles
Wrinkles and skin aging in general are of course not skin conditions, but most of us do not want them. In skin aging, the skin becoming less elastic and firm plays a major role. This is mainly the result of a reduced production of collagen and elastin, two proteins that play an essential role in keeping the skin firm and elastic. From a study from 2023 it turns out that CBD stimulates the production of these two proteins. This makes the skin look younger again and the process of skin aging is counteracted. So do you suffer from aging skin and are you considering something drastic like botox? Then try CBD first!
CBD oil for skin infections
Finally, CBD can also help with skin infections caused by other problems than the above-mentioned conditions acne, eczema and psoriasis. The anti-inflammatory effect of CBD can be very helpful with ringworm, boils, impetigo and cellulitis. Many people who use it notice that inflammation decreases faster and that pain and swelling go away faster.
Always keep in mind that CBD is not an alternative to professional treatment for skin problems. CBD is not a medicine, but a supplement to it. If in doubt about the use, always consult a doctor first. Want to know more about CBD and your skin? Then you can always contact record. We are happy to help you!
